For generations, the Magaliesberg mountains have stood as a familiar landmark above Hartbeespoort. But few people know the fascinating story behind their name — a story involving a powerful African chief, early settlers and the turbulent history of the region.

Long before Hartbeespoort Dam was built, four mountain passes played an important role in the movement of people, livestock, wagons and armies through the Magaliesberg. Silkaatsnek, Saartjiesnek, Kommandonek and Pampoennek are more than geographical landmarks — their names preserve fascinating fragments of the region's history.

The Second Anglo-Boer War – also called the South African [...]

The greatest single event in the history of Hartbeespoort was the building of the Hartbeespoort dam

The British novelist, John Bucham, visited the Poort in 1903.

When you enter Hartbeespoort from Johannesburg or Pretoria there is a four meter granite cross on top of the mountain at Saartjiesnek. Locals regard this sight as a beacon of homecoming.

11th July 1900 This was the opening battle of the [...]